Osasere Okundaye, a 16-year-old girl from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has made history by becoming Nigeria's youngest chartered accountant. She achieved this feat after qualifying through the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), surpassing the previous record set by Jonathan Adewale, who became a chartered accountant at the age of 17 in 2022.
Minister Praises Okundaye's Achievement
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, commended Okundaye's accomplishment in a statement issued on Monday, June 29, 2026, via his X handle @ayowisdom_. Olawande described the feat as a remarkable demonstration of hard work, discipline, resilience, and commitment to excellence.
“I heartily congratulate Miss Osasere Okundaye on her outstanding achievement of becoming Nigeria’s youngest Chartered Accountant at just 16 years of age. This remarkable milestone is a testament to the power of hard work, discipline, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” Olawande said.
Inspiration for Nigerian Youth
The minister emphasized that Okundaye's achievement should inspire other young Nigerians to pursue excellence. “Osasere has distinguished herself as a shining example of the limitless potential of Nigerian youth. Her accomplishment reminds us that with determination, dedication, and the right support, young Nigerians can break barriers, set new records, and inspire a generation to dream bigger and strive for excellence,” he added.
Olawande wished the teenager greater success in the years ahead, expressing hope that her story would inspire millions of young Nigerians across the country.
Breaking Previous Records
Okundaye's achievement surpasses the previous record held by Jonathan Adewale, who became Nigeria's youngest chartered accountant at 17 after completing the rigorous ICAN professional examinations in 2022. This new record highlights the growing excellence among Nigerian youths.
In related news, the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) recently recognized 38-year-old Lukman Abdulrauf as its youngest professor after academic promotion. Abdulrauf, a legal scholar, gained attention for his research covering technology, governance, and digital rights. The university pointed out his international research roles and contributions to global law discussions.
ICAN Success Stories
Meanwhile, a Nigerian lady shared her excitement on social media after clearing her ICAN Skills Level examination in one sitting. Her post attracted reactions as social media users congratulated her and shared their own experiences. This story underscores the dedication and hard work required to succeed in the accounting profession.
Okundaye's record-breaking achievement is a testament to the power of determination and the potential of Nigerian youth to excel in various fields.
